Things I've Learned - Science Fairs

I have always wanted to keep a notebook titled
Things I've Learned. 

I don't have a great memory, and usually end up making the same mistakes
over and over.

I've cursed NOT starting the notebook many times

(usually right after I've made the same mistake twice).

Don't get me wrong... not BIG mistakes...
just those little "note-to-self" things.

Well, it's Science Fair season again, and I'm starting the Things I've Learned notebook -- right here, right now.

Our elementary school holds a Science Fair every year. Since we have lived in Colorado (2002), I think we've only had one year without one. They have evolved over the years... they no longer judge the projects... they just want the kids to learn the scientific method and encourage their interest in all things science. Initially only the 5th and 6th graders participated, but now all grades are invited to take part in this rite of elementary school passage. Believe me, I have helped with my share of Science Fair projects.

So you would think I would just KNOW.
Know that when your child brings home an informational paper about the project, stating that the display (for the 2nd graders) should be on a trifold large piece of construction paper and should clearly show that the child has done the work, you really need to help that child make a display that would equal those of the most elaborate projects.

I learned that last year.

I'm not making that mistake again.

And I was so proud of myself. I have the tendency to over-do, but I restrained myself. I let Mar choose the project, perform the project (actually Grandma and Grandpa G. helped her with it), and hand-write her hypothesis, observations, and conclusion.

Once we got to the Science Fair, however, I noticed that there was not a single other display quite like hers.

They were large, bold, and beautiful... neatly done with obvious parental involvement.

I could see the disappointment on her face as she compared her display to the others.  

(And she had been so proud of her final result.)

Well, this year's project is in full swing, and you can bet that I won't make the same mistake again...

I will be giving by best effort to make sure Mauri's project is an eye-popper.

No, I won't be "making" the display, I will merely be assisting.

With every available means I have. 

Get out the Cricut, Mauri, it's Science Fair time --
game on.